Think People Co-Founder to Retire

Think People, an AAB Group company, has announced that Anne Dougan will retire from the business in August 2023.

Together with Emer Hinphey, Anne Co-Founded Think People in 2006. Since then, the business has grown in size and reputation as the go to HR And People & Culture consulting business in Northern Ireland.

For much of her time at Think People, Anne has been particularly sought after for leading HR projects requiring an expected level of sensitivity due to her significant HR knowledge and calm but firm unflustered style and gravitas.

Anne has a proven track record in delivering results to the Think People clients. From working as interim HR Director on rationalisation and restructuring projects, to HR consultancy projects including job evaluations and rewards; Anne has taken her results focused, no drama approach to clients, working in numerous industry sectors across UK, N Ireland, and ROI jurisdictions.
Emer Hinphey will continue to lead the Think People business as CEO, supported by a new Senior Management Team.

Think People joined the AAB Group in 2022, as part of this powerful network, Emer will work closely with other business across the group to bring even more value to clients, particularly in partnership with AAB People in Scotland and FPM in Ireland.

Commenting on Anne’s retirement Emer said “Anne and I have had a brilliant working relationship and worked hard together to build a business around an area of work we love and where we knew we could make a difference. I’ll miss her sage wisdom, her professionalism, and her friendship.

We will miss having her in the business, the contribution she has made reflects her fantastic work ethic and deep expertise. She has passed on a wealth of knowledge and left a legacy of brilliant People and HR experts in her team to step into her shoes. The sign of a great leader.”

Anne added “It has been a brilliant 17 years at Think People. From day one we have been passionate about growing and developing the business, and the team, by encouraging a strong work ethic, desire to stretch ourselves and building commercial focus within a can-do business. I have had the privilege to work with some fantastic and talented people and have enjoyed the journey we have been on so far.

Our business is left in great hands with Emer and the team for the next stage of that journey. I have no doubt that we will go onto enjoy even more success, which I look forward to watching unfold.”

Anne’s retirement was celebrated with a team party before she jets off around the world for a fantastic holiday to mark the beginning of a much-deserved retirement.